1. Product Overview
The INK460 Tunnel Ultrasonic Wind Speed and Direction Detector is purpose-built for continuous, real-time wind monitoring inside tunnels. It uses the ultrasonic time-difference principle, with two probes installed on opposite tunnel walls. Since the sampling zone spans the entire tunnel cross-section, the measured wind speed is fully representative of the actual internal airflow, supporting ventilation control, fire safety, and traffic safety management.
2. Sensing Technology & Self-Cleaning System
The detector operates on the ultrasonic time-difference principle. Two ultrasonic probes send and receive signals across the tunnel. The system calculates wind speed and direction based on the difference in signal travel time between the two directions. This non-contact method eliminates moving parts, resulting in low failure rates and no need for routine mechanical maintenance.
While the device does not include an active self-cleaning system, its cast aluminum housing with anodized surface treatment resists corrosion and dust accumulation. The open-path design reduces the impact of minor contamination on readings. Regular visual inspection and cleaning of the probe windows every 6–12 months is recommended to maintain optimal performance in high-pollution tunnel environments.
3. Key Features & Competitive Advantages
- Robust cast aluminum housing with anodized treatment, built to withstand harsh tunnel conditions.
- Cross-tunnel sampling zone provides a true representation of internal airflow, unlike point sensors that may miss variations.
- Ultrasonic detection principle is unaffected by ambient temperature changes, ensuring stable accuracy in extreme conditions.
- Non-contact design with no moving parts reduces mechanical failure risks and maintenance needs.
- Supports multiple output options including analog, digital, and switch signals, enabling flexible integration with tunnel control systems.
4. Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Measurement Path |
5 m ~ 50 m |
| Measurement Principle |
Ultrasonic time-difference method |
| Measurement Accuracy |
±0.1 m/s |
| Measurement Range |
Wind speed: -30 ~ +30 m/s; Wind direction: forward and reverse |
| Communication Protocol |
ModBus |
| Analog Output |
2-channel 4 ~ 20 mA; max load impedance 500 Ω |
| Digital Interface |
RS232, RS485 |
| Switch Output |
2-channel passive relay output |
| Operating Temperature |
-40 ~ +65 °C |
| Power Supply |
AC 220 V ±10 %, 50/60 Hz |
| Averaging Time |
1 second |
| Protection Class |
IP66 |
| Installation |
Both sides of tunnel |
5. Applications
- Highway and urban tunnel ventilation control systems, to adjust airflow rates based on real-time wind conditions.
- Fire safety monitoring in tunnels, to track smoke movement and guide emergency response actions.
- Intelligent traffic management systems, to detect abnormal airflow patterns caused by accidents or congestion.
- Industrial and mining tunnels, where accurate airflow monitoring is critical for worker safety and ventilation efficiency.
